One of the most impactful sections of The Two Kinds of Knowledge is Kenyon’s definition of faith. In the realm of Sense Knowledge, faith is often viewed as "hoping for the best" or "blind optimism." But in the realm of Revelation Knowledge, faith is a spiritual sense.
Faith is the "eye" of the spirit. Just as your eyes see the physical world, your faith perceives the spiritual world.
When you read the Bible (a physical book) with only your intellect (Sense Knowledge), you see history and literature. But when you read the Bible with your spirit, illuminated by the Holy Spirit (Revelation Knowledge), you encounter the living God. two kinds of knowledge ew kenyon pdf
This paper examines E.W. Kenyon’s distinction between two kinds of knowledge: sensory-rational knowledge (gnosis) and spiritual-revelation knowledge (epignosis). Kenyon argues that biblical faith operates not through empirical or doctrinal familiarity but through heart-based revelation. The paper explores the theological roots of this distinction, its implications for Christian epistemology, and its relevance for contemporary debates on faith and reason.
Limitations / Critiques:
Kenyon argues that Revelation Knowledge is a "Higher Law" than Natural Law. Just as the law of aviation supersedes the law of gravity when thrust is applied, the promise of God supersedes physical symptoms when faith is applied.
If you download the E.W. Kenyon PDF, here is a 3-step practical application for daily life: One of the most impactful sections of The
Rational knowledge (Greek gnosis) is necessary for everyday life: science, navigation, medicine, and academics. However, Kenyon insists it cannot penetrate spiritual reality. It analyzes God but does not encounter Him. It produces theology, not transformation.
“The knowledge of the senses deals with the world of phenomena; the knowledge of revelation deals with the world of reality.” – adapted from Kenyon’s The Two Kinds of Knowledge Limitations / Critiques: